Public Event

Classical music in China has gone through a fascinating process of evolution which followed the shape of the society and its continuous changes. Despite its fascinating history, full of lessons for many the world over, large elements of this music are unknown to many in the Western world. In this session, Dr Ben Lunn will discuss the circumstances that influenced five particularly significant composers - Xian Xinghai, Jian'er Zhu, Tan Dun, Wenchen Qin, Sel Nkbayar - drawing out how they adapted to the changing world around them. SACU is delighted to host this talk by member Dr Ben Lunn, composer […]

How to Eat: A Confucian Guide to Dining Together - Lecture for SACU Are table manners important? Confucius once said: “Exemplary persons do not take leave of their authoritative conduct even for the space of a meal.” Even during a meal, one’s consideration for the comfort of fellow diners provide pertinent opportunity to cultivate consummate conduct (ren 仁). Beyond avoiding a faux pas, eating together compels us to bring out the better part of ourselves with every mouthful. The Analects of Confucius, trans. Roger T. Ames and Henry Rosemont Jr. (New York: Ballantine Books, 1998), 90. This lecture is one […]